Air quality along the Front Range and in Metro Denver does not currently meet federal standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. But by taking a few simple steps, we all can play a part in improving the air we breathe.

SKIP TWO CAR TRIPS EACH WEEK

Coloradans love the outdoors, so why not get out of your car? After all, the average car pumps out more than 8,000 pounds of CO2 each year. You can start by replacing just two vehicle trips each week by walking, riding a bike, or taking public transportation.

Pack a lunch or walk to lunch.

Walk, jog, or ride a bike to the gym.

Use public transit to get to a game, concert, or other event.

COMBINE CAR TRIPS

Sometimes you just need to drive. It happens. But by adopting a “while I’m out” approach you can have a dramatic impact on our air. Here are a few ideas about how to combine trips:

Pick one day each week to run errands. You can even create an “errand bag” (or have your kids decorate one for you) and fill it with reminders so you won’t forget anything while you’re out.

Have you used the OzoMeter yet? Use this handy tool to see the difference you make for our air when you combine errands and car trips.

Try to keep stops to 30 minutes or less. This makes your car run more efficiently = fewer emissions.

COMBINE PASSENGERS ON TRIPS

Carpooling or vanpooling has plenty of advantages, including keeping the air clean. In addition to gas savings, carpooling and vanpooling prevents parking woes and allows access to Metro Denver’s HOV lanes. More time in the passenger seat means more time to catch up on your favorite podcast.

TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

When it comes to easing traffic congestion, and improving air quality, public transit is a powerhouse. Whether you hop on board to get to work or use a train to get to downtown Denver for fun, you’ll be making a big difference. Start with using public transit twice a week, instead of your car.

ENERGIZE YOUR RIDE

Electric vehicles are good for Colorado’s air. Thanks to incentives and the availability of charging stations around the Front Range, owning an electric vehicle is much more simple than it once was. Visit plugintothepresent.com to see how EVs are better for your wallet and Colorado.

TAKE STEPS AT HOME

Our air can benefit from small changes to your daily routine.

Use low VOC cleaners, paints and other products around the house.

Keep your lawn equipment well-maintained or switch to electric tools.

Mow after 5 pm on hot, summer days when ground-level ozone is at its peak.

If teleworking or telecommuting is an option for you, stay home and keep the car in the garage.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

It’s the little things that keep Colorado’s air clean.

Don’t let your car idle for more than 30 seconds. Find more at EnginesOff.com.

Fill up your gas tank in the evening when it’s cool.

Stop refueling when the nozzle clicks the first time.

Keep your car well-tuned and make sure tires have the right amount of air pressure.